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Writer's pictureWinchester Orthodontics

Ask an orthodontist - exploring the benefits and challenges of using clear aligners

If you're considering straightening your teeth, but don't want to go through the hassle of traditional metal braces, you may have heard about Spark aligners with our orthodontist Hampshire as a viable alternative. In this blog post, we'll look at Spark aligners, including how they work, the benefits and challenges of using them, and what you can expect during the treatment process.

What are Spark aligners?


Spark aligners, also known as clear aligners, are a type of orthodontic treatment used to straighten teeth and correct misalignments. Unlike traditional metal braces, which are attached to the teeth with wires and brackets, Spark aligners are made of clear plastic and are worn over the teeth like a mouthguard. They are virtually invisible, which makes them a popular choice for adults who want to straighten their teeth without drawing attention to their orthodontic treatment.


How do Spark aligners work?


Spark aligners work by applying gentle pressure to the teeth, slowly moving them into their desired positions. With our orthodontist Hampshire at Winchester Orthodontics each aligner is custom-made to fit your unique dentition and you'll be given a series of aligners to wear over the course of your treatment. You'll need to wear each aligner for about two weeks before moving on to the next one in the series. As you progress through the aligners, your teeth will gradually shift into their correct position.


Benefits of Spark aligners


There are several benefits to using Spark aligners from our orthodontist Hampshire.


As mentioned, Spark aligners are made of clear plastic and are thin, hugging closely to the surface of the tooth, virtually invisible in public. This makes them a popular choice for adults who don't want to draw attention to their orthodontic treatment.


The aligners are made of smooth, flexible plastic, so they are comfortable to wear and don't cause any irritation or discomfort.


Unlike traditional metal braces, which are attached to the teeth and can't be removed until treatment is complete, Spark aligners can be taken out for eating, drinking, and brushing. This means you can enjoy your favourite foods without worrying about damaging your braces or getting food stuck in them.


Challenges of Spark aligners


While Spark aligners offer many benefits, they also come with some challenges.


To get the best results from the aligners, it's important to wear them for at least 22 hours per day. This can be difficult for some people, as it requires a high level of commitment and discipline.


Spark aligners are not suitable for all types of dental misalignments. They are best suited for mild to moderate cases of teeth crowding or spacing, and may not be useful for more severe misalignments.


The treatment time for Spark aligners can vary, but it's typically longer than traditional metal braces. On average, treatment with these aligners takes about 12 to 18 months, although it can take longer for more complex cases.


In conclusion, Spark aligners offer a comfortable and virtually invisible alternative to traditional metal braces for teeth straightening. While they come with some challenges, such as the need for high compliance and longer treatment times, they offer many benefits, including the ability to remove them for eating and drinking and their virtually invisible appearance.


Ask at our practice to find out more about straightening your teeth with Spark aligners.

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